The controversial foe of Tony Stark has previously been rumoured for both Iron Man 2 and the latest follow-up.

The Mandarin is said to be a "silent partner" in the formation of Killian's superpowered Extremis army.

It was also revealed this week that James Badge Dale, who was previously announced as the cyborg villain Coldblood, will also appear in the film at some point in the Iron Patriot armour.

The armour was used by Norman Osborn in the 'Dark Reign' and Siege storylines in Marvel Comics' titles, but the Spider-Man villain is unlikely to make an appearance in the film due to movie rights issues.